Engineering high-performance learning environments
THE ASPIRATION
A future-ready school for learning and community
St John Fisher Catholic School in Kent had outgrown its aging facilities, which no longer met the needs of a modern secondary and sixth form education. The ambition was to create a new, high-quality school for 900 pupils and 285 sixth form students, along with sports and cultural spaces that could be shared with the wider community. The project needed to meet strict Department for Education (DfE) requirements and deliver a low-energy, future-ready building without unnecessary complexity or cost.
OUR RESPONSE
Clear thinking, robust design delivery
Appointed by Wates under a design and build contract, we provided Building Services Engineering expertise through to RIBA Stage 5. We supported the contractor’s successful bid before developing detailed, compliant designs aligned with DfE specifications.
Close engagement with the school and the DfE was central to our approach. We translated complex technical proposals into clear, accessible presentations to ensure stakeholder priorities were fully understood and embedded.
The project began at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, requiring close coordination across a largely remote design team. Even with these challenges, collaboration stayed strong, supported by safe, managed site visits whenever they were possible.
We used IES modelling to test and refine the design options, making sure the energy performance targets could be met in a cost effective way. This helped us assess the feasibility of air source heat pumps and how they would work within the wider building services strategy. By working closely with a modular MEP manufacturer, we coordinated off site prefabrication to simplify installation and reduce programme risk.
THE RESULT
A compliant, efficient new school
The £28 million new-build school now provides modern teaching spaces, sports facilities and community amenities within a high performing building. Through careful plant selection and a strong building fabric, the project achieved an EPC A rating without needing extensive photovoltaic systems.
THE LASTING IMPACT
Lower energy, lasting value
The new school gives students and staff a comfortable, efficient place to learn, while also reducing long term energy use and running costs. Community access to the facilities strengthens local connections, ensuring the school provides value well beyond the classroom.
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